An Interview with Mercedes Lander of Kittie

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For its fourth full-length album, Funeral For Yesterday, Canadian metal quartet Kittie captured an amazing studio warmth to go with their noticeably evolved, more melodic sound, courtesy of producer legend Jack Ponti (Bon Jovi, Skid Row, Alice Cooper). Although Ponti now works mainly in artist management, according to drummer Mercedes Lander, he “came out of fifteen years retirement to work with us. Jack was a big ‘80s Metal guy,” she continues. “He’s very Old School in his recording methods – which I enjoy. I’m not a big fan of ProTools, which just sucks the life out of everything. Except for the vocals, everything on Funeral For Yesterday was recorded on two-inch analog tape.”
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Gail In Print: Modern Drummer, April 2007

MD April 2007
Carmine Appice: The Best Wig in Rock

Check out my awesome updates with drummers Brooks Wackerman of Tenacious D and Billy Brimblecom of Blackpool Lights in the April 2007 issue of Modern Drummer. Read the full issue online at This Link!

Happy Birthday, George Harrison!

George Harrison and Paramahansa
All Things Must Pass: 1943-2001 (George Harrison with Paramahansa Yogananda)

George Harrison my favorite Beatle, was born on this day, February 25th in 1943. I am celebrating his birthday today by playing All Things Must Pass, which is not only his best album but arguably the best solo album by any former Beatle. That includes Paul McCartney’s Ram and what ever John Lennon album has “#9 Dream” on it. If you find yourself in the mood today to get a bit nostalgic about George, here’s an excellent article/memorium on his life and career.

RIP Quigley

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Quigley: 2005 – 2007

It is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to Quigley, my favorite Red Cap Oranda who was found laying motionless on the gravel of the Chick Tank this morning. Farewell little friend, may you swim free in fish heaven.

Remembering Andy Warhol: 1928 – 1987

Andy Warhol Self Portrait Photo

Groundbreaking American Artist Andy Warhol passed away on this day, February 22nd, in 1987. He was 58 years old. I recall that on that day, I was at a Julian Cope show at Club Lingerie in Hollywood when Copey announced from the stage between songs, “I just thought of something: Andy Warhol’s dead.” I was bootlegging the show so I have that on tape if I am ever asked to prove it. Andy died on the operating table in the midst of gallbladder surgery. Andy Warhol was one of the most original and visionary modern artists ever and is probably my favorite artist to this day. I still miss him.